Orthotics are a medical device designed to be worn inside a shoe. They typically control abnormal foot functions and movements. They also help to alleviate foot pain and discomfort. Orthotics have the potential to help impaired feet stay mobile and improve multiple symptoms for disorders such as heel spurs, bunions, blisters, and more.

What are they made of?

Plastics and carbon-fiber composites are what make orthotics. They are firm devices that do not flex easily. After a podiatrist takes a molding of the patient’s foot, the mold is used to craft the orthotic device. After the custom orthotic is made, the podiatrist helps the patient try it on and adjusts it so that it fits properly. Once the orthotic is adjusted, the patient is able to use it on a daily basis. These devices are typically comfortable and do not cause additional pain and suffering. Orthotics are meant to be placed inside your shoe.

How long does an Orthotic last?

An orthotic can last for many years. They are made out of medical grade materials that last with normal wear and tear. If the orthotic has special pieces, also known as additions or extensions, then the patient who has the orthotic will need to replace these extra pieces regularly.

If you have a sensitive foot and are unable to tolerate rigid materials, there are other options you can use instead. Some orthotics can be made using soft, breathable materials that are gentler on the foot and ankle. Ask a podiatrist about these softer alternatives.

Over the Counter Orthotics

Beware of over the counter “orthotics” such as arch support inserts. These devices are mass produced and not tailored to individual needs. People who do not have the proper training can cause worse pain and suffering with a poorly composed orthotic.

If you are interested in obtaining an orthotic custom fit for your foot, do not delay, call our office today! Our number is 313-274-0990. You can also make an appointment online.

After a few drinks and some motivation from your friends, you decided that it would be a great idea to go out onto the dance floor and show them all of the moves you had kept locked away for the past three years. Everything went well, until you woke up the next morning with your foot so sore that you couldn’t even dream of walking on it. What is that pain? Did you break your foot somehow? Sprain it? Or could it be plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the tough tissue on the bottom of the foot. Typically, it occurs along the plantar fascia, which extends from the heel all the way down and attaches to the toes. Essentially, it makes up the majority of the bottom of your foot. This condition not only causes pain in this area, but it can also cause heel spurs.

Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually at its worst in the morning and eases up by the end of the day. That is why it is common for people to wake up with the pain seemingly out of nowhere.

One of the major causes of plantar fasciitis is continuous, repetitive stress to the foot. This means that all of that stomping from dancing to Cotton Eye Joe only made things much worse, and likely caused the pain to begin. Another cause is poorly fitting shoes. If your shoes do not fit and have no arch support, you can also find yourself facing the pain of plantar fasciitis.

Your feet should be fit first! If the warm weather has arrived and you didn’t accomplish the weight loss goals that you planned over the winter it may be time to stop by one of our offices and prepare your feet. We have offices in Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Clarkston and Trenton Michigan for your convenience, but let’s start with safety and go from there.

Warm Up Those Toes

Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground directly in front of you. Lift your leg off the ground (one at a time) and make circles in the air by using your big toe as the focal point. Move for 20 to 30 seconds in clockwise direction. Repeat with other foot.

Stand flat foot on the ground and hold on to a sturdy surface. With your feet beside each other rock your feet forward and backward as far as your muscles will allow without straining yourself.

Standing up straight with your feet beside each other, take your right toe and place it beside the heel of your left foot and softly push forward towards the floor to gently stretch your arch.

Focus on Your Feet

If you are not careful you can develop some minor ailments that will slow you down and could potentially interrupt your flow. For example; Athlete’s Foot,Blisters, Corns, Calluses, Heel Pain

Coordinate and Balance

Rhythmical moves that slowly expand your range of motion gives your tissues energy and enhances your coordination so you are less likely to fall. If you lack coordination for a certain class you should find one that suits your ability and gain experience first. After you have achieved some new goals then go back and try that class again.

Ease in and Adapt

Increase your intensity as your body gets warm and flexible. If you are tired and jump right in then your energy will drain quickly and you will feel defeated. Adapt your body and mind to the exercise you are doing and you will be more likely to relax and do it correctly.

These suggestions will enhance your performance plus help to reduce injury, which will eventually lead to making your goal. If you are thinking of trying a more intense routine or if you are getting back in shape after a long break you should contact Dr. Mayer Salama or Dr. Daniel Salama at 313-274-0990 and schedule an appointment for a foot examination before beginning your fitness program. When it comes to exercise your feet often get overlooked so put them first this season and see results!

Approximately 2 million people are treated for plantar fasciitis each year. If left untreated, the condition can lead to further long-term issues, such as knee, hip, and back pain. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, the band of tissue lining the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated due to too much strain. Those who are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis have flat feet or either high arches.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Mayer Salama, DPM of Salama Foot Care. Dr. Salama will do everything possible to treat your condition.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

Ryan Zimmerman was out for most of the 2015 season due to plantar fasciitis in his foot. Manager Dusty Baker was hopeful at the time that Zimmerman was able to return in “a few weeks.” Plantar fasciitis was just one of many health problems that Zimmerman has been undergoing for the last two years. Zimmer says “it’s a cautious approach, knowing I don’t need that many at-bats down here to get ready.”

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Mayer Salama, D.P.M. of Salama Foot Care. Dr. Salama will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.